Spectators created a great atmosphere with the Tug of War action all the more challenging as competitors showed determination and tenacity in the wet and muddy conditions battling the elements as well as the opposition. With many new teams entering the fray the competition was fierce with some pulls coming down to endurance as well as great team work. Despite the at time appalling conditions there was a fantastic feel to the event with the children’s entertainment, farmers market, stalls and the Fastgrass Vehicle pull all creating a unique and entertaining day for everyone.

Once again the $1500 Trophy Final was played out between The Buzz Bars and The Cody Riders with the two time champions the Cody Riders prevailing once more. The Mixed pull was a hard fought battle with the Grizzlies, coached by the infamous Alex (Grizz) Wyllie (former All Black and All Black Coach), winning for the second year, beating the Waikuku Beach Surf Lifesavers .

The Fastgrass Vehicle pull was won by the Waikuku Beach Volunteer Fire Brigade posting the fastest time for the second consecutive year with the fastest Women’s team being taken out by the ladies from Owens.

Organisor Richard Lange said “We proved we can run this event no matter what the weather throws at us. The team did a superb job quickly adapting to the conditions and making sure everyone had a great day. We are hugely grateful for the magnificent support of our principal sponsor Heller’s, our secondary sponsor Fastgrass and the many generous businesses who have supported this event sponsoring teams and donating prizes. With their help we were able to give back over $5000 of cash and spot prizes and to have a raffle with a prize pool worth nearly $3500.”

Planning will be under way shortly for the next Famous Annual Sefton Tug of War in May next year.